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Monday, February 1, 2016

Eagles 6th In Inaugural Women's Rankings

World Rugby announced brand new rankings for women's sides today and the U.S. check in at 6th. The move, which comes many years after the men's rankings were introduced, is just the latest sign of growth in the women's game. The rankings come in anticipation of the World Cup in Ireland next year.

"After the success of Women's Rugby World Cup in 2014 and the excitement building up to the next edition in 2017 in Ireland, it's vital for international teams to have a rankings focus that will drive exposure and interest as well as increasing the competition schedule, as it encourages member unions to play more test matches," said World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset in a press release.

Take the jump to read more.

"It's a positive step for one of the fastest growing team sports in the world, as it brings parity with the men's game. Today's announcement also comes as a timely boost ahead of what will be an exciting Women's Six Nations Championship.”

New Zealand top the rankings followed by France, England, Ireland, and Canada. As mentioned, the U.S. come in at sixth followed by Australia, Italy, Spain, and Wales to round out the top ten. With the Six Nations giving European teams more matches than other sides during the year it will be interesting to see how the matches impact that rankings. The U.S. have regular competition every year in the Super Series but nothing like the Six Nations.